Last night was the NCAA Cross Country Awards Banquet.  For the first time, the organizers incorporated a “blue carpet” whereby athletes could pose for pictures and show their fashion sense. Unfortunately, E! and TMZ did not show up, however, Flotrack was there to capture it all. 

The fashion was very diverse,especially for the men as it ranged from business casual, to Euro inspired, to slightly awkward Kanye West.  Ryan and Alex did a great job asking the pressing questions about who inspired their ensembles and whether heels are more difficult to wear than spikes.  My hopes that the event would be catered by Steak n’ Shake were probably misguided after I remembered the clientele. Even the complimentary cookies on each table went largely untouched (except on ours). 

At the course, I had the opportunity to interview a team’s eighth runner.  For those that aren’t familiar with cross country, any runner after seven is an alternate and is not expected to race, barring illness or injury.  Ryan and I thought this this topic needed to be explored further and are kicking ourselves that we didn’t decide to shoot a pilot for “The 8th Man” this year.  Possible (implausible, fictitious) topics to explore:

-Do the eighth men from different teams meet the night before the race where they stay up late, eat what they want and share their stories of almost racing?

-The morning of the race, do the eighth men actually hope they get the opportunity to race?  If so, what circumstance would be required to make it happen?  A rolled ankle in the grass?  A freak foam rolling accident? 

This morning, we headed out to the course for the live show.  I’m not sure how much of it ended up being live, but the process itself was very fun.   Lots of credit to production man RJ, who had to stand in one spot for the duration of the show in not so great conditions.  Ditching my gloves before we went on the air was a huge error as I spent most of the show trying not to appear cold eyeing my jacket longingly. 

Both guests, Oklahoma State’s Dave Smith and Washington’s Greg Metcalf, were engaging and open.  I was particularly impressed with Smith’s candor when he said that on Wisconsin and Oklahoma State’s best day he feels his squad is stronger than the top ranked Badgers.  I am sure most coach’s feels this way when they address their teams, but to say it publicly the day before the meet is a bit bolder.   

Double socks tomorrow for sure.